If you are planning a trip to Toronto and you are wondering when would be the most appropriate time for you to visit, then the simple answer is from late April through to early June, and again from mid-September to mid-October. During these months, the weather is just fine, the tourist numbers are peaking, lots of patio eateries are open, pedestrian markets are full operation and there are also lots of local and international festivals taking place. However, these months may not work for everyone given that reasons and dynamics of travel also vary. Here is a more in-depth look at the other various times when visiting Toronto would be appropriate depending on certain situations-:
Visiting Toronto when the weather is good
May through to September is the time when Toronto experiences the warmest weather and long sunlight hours. May to July is when the city experiences the most rains, and it may not be a great time to visit if you were planning on engaging on lots of outdoor activities such as visiting parks and sightseeing.
For hot, sunny days in the city, the best time to visit is between June and September. At this time, summer is in full gear and it is just the perfect time to engage in a myriad of outdoor activities. If you need the snow, however, and you wanted to visit the mountain ski resorts, then the best time to visit is between January and March when winter is thick.
When to visit with family and kids
Canada ETA is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to Canada by air. If you are planning to visit Toronto with your entire family, then summer would make a great time. At this time, most of the pedestrian markets are in full operations and there are also a lot of family-friendly outdoor festivals taking place in different places. Parks such as the Centerville Amusement Park will be open and this will be a nice place for the entire family, especially the kids, to have a lot of fun. Some of the other parks worth checking out with family at this time include the Toronto Zoo and the High Park.
When to visit the Toronto Islands
There are three major islands that make up the Toronto Islands – Algonquin, Ward’s and Center, all these are interconnected with boardwalks, bridges, and paths. To access these islands, you can take the ten-minute ferry across the inner harbor, and this is a ride that will treat you to a lot of relaxation, and away from the hustle and bustle of the city. In these islands, you will find nothing but pure bliss in the charming cottages, the exciting beach attractions, and the car-free streets. During the summer months, Center Island will be the place to go with kids if you want a quiet and peaceful place to have lots of fun.
It is away from the crowds and usually hosts a number of special events that will be of great interest to both children and their parents. If you want to get the best experience, however, the best time to visit should be in the morning. The crowds are not as many as you would find in most of the Toronto attractions, but the place can really fill up, especially when all parents bring their kids to have fun.
When to visit the CN Tower
The CN Tower is without a doubt one of the top attractions in the city of Toronto, and you can bet that there will always be crowds who want to have a bird’s view of Toronto from this architectural masterpiece. However, if you want to avoid the crowds and having to wait in long lines, then the best time to visit this tower is during winter when everyone else seems to be playing with snow. However, the challenge with visiting during winter is that the weather may become grumpy and you may fail to see the views you were hoping to see.
This is also not to mention that the Outdoor Sky Terrace may also be closed. If you have to visit during winter, be sure to check the weather and time your visit during days when it may be a bit clear. However, if you don’t mind the crowds, then you can come during the summer. You will have to endure the crowds, but the wait will be worth the views and the experience you will have once you reach the observation points of the tower.
When to visit the St. Lawrence Market
The St. Lawrence Market is a very popular destination for tourists in Toronto and the best time to visit is on Saturday morning. If you think you will want to browse the products and snap some photos, then you should make it by eight in the morning. This is also the best time to engage the vendors in conversations to learn more about their produce, foods and educate yourself a bit about Canadian culture. The busiest times for the market is mid-morning when most Toronto residents come out for their supplies and things begin to fizzle out once it hits noon. It is a Saturday and people need to go back home and prepare meals for their families.
Best time for attending the theatre
The city of Toronto is thriving with theatre scenes that offer a myriad of thrilling performances throughout the year. One of the largest theatre hubs you have to visit is the Entertainment District, and the best time to visit is during summer when there are a plethora of festivals taking place. The city is also known for its strong cultures in live music, art, and film.
It is usually the host of various film festivals, starting with the Hot Doc Festival in mid-April and the Toronto International Film Festival in September. If you love arts, or you desire to take your family to action-packed festivals, then you have every reason to check out the theatres in Toronto. These are places where you will have a chance to see the best of Canadians, and as well as lots of international performances from top celebrities whom you might have ever thought you would attend any of their live performances.
Updated: 10 April 2019
